Triumph expands its cruiser lineup with the new 2014 America LT, a touring-oriented model that won't break the bank.

Ergonomics and equipment were the main focus of designers as they looked to appeal to a broader range of enthusiasts. Riders both short and tall will get what they want from this light touring motorcycle that features a pair of large saddlebags, a passenger backrest, and a windshield you can remove without tools.


As much style and comfort as a larger, pricier bike
Designed and developed specifically for American riders, the 2014 Triumph America LT boasts genuine cruiser styling with a large front tire, fat-boy fork, wide rake, and distinctive twin-cylinder. At just 690mm high, the rider's seat also puts it among the lowest-riding bikes on the market.

The 2014 Triumph America LT proves easy to access and comfortable to ride. The riding position is ergonomic, the seat is wide and nicely padded, the tall windshield allows you to maintain highway speeds without much turbulence, and both the front fork and dual rear shocks are perfectly calibrated for this type of motorcycle.

Designed and developed specifically for American riders, the 2014 Triumph America LT boasts genuine cruiser styling. (Photo: France Ouellet)

Proven chassis
The engine in the 2014 Triumph America LT is the same that powers the standard America, namely an 865cc parallel twin with a 270-degree firing interval, generous midrange torque, and a lovely feel overall. Power delivery is never violent, while its low position within the chassis drops the machine's centre of gravity for superior handling.

While not geared toward sporty performance, the America LT almost fooled me into thinking that it was. On the other hand, the exhaust note gave me the impression of riding a smaller-displacement bike. Check out the accessory catalogue for a manlier-sounding exhaust system.

The single front disc provides adequate braking power considering the aspirations of the 2014 Triumph America LT. However, with a passenger sitting behind you, the front brake lever becomes spongy after a few repeated stops. In these situations, it's best to use a judicious combination of front and rear brake pressure to enjoy safe braking distances.

The engine in the 2014 Triumph America LT is the same that powers the standard America, namely an 865cc parallel twin with a 270-degree firing interval, generous midrange torque, and a lovely feel overall. (Photo: France Ouellet)

Easygoing and comforting
With its laid-back riding position and wide rake, the 2014 Triumph America LT is more suited for gentle cruising than aggressive cornering. The limited ground clearance furthers that notion; watch out for the foot rests when you lean the bike. That being said, the not-so-wide tires, reasonable weight of 270 kg, and fairly nimble chassis help provide some form of excitement on twisty roads.

The 2014 Triumph America LT offers sharp steering and good manoeuvrability around town, making low-speed riding pretty close to effortless. On the highway, it feels solid and doesn't fear strong winds. I also liked how the machine kept its poise and trajectory on rougher pavement.

In the end, despite modest technology (chain final drive, manual choke, no ABS), the 2014 Triumph America LT will appeal to many customers as a comfortable and affordable ($10,499) light-touring cruiser -- a unique alternative to Japanese and American rivals, as well as a way to travel cheap, British style.

With its laid-back riding position and wide rake, the 2014 Triumph America LT is more suited for gentle cruising than aggressive cornering. (Photo: France Ouellet)

Pros

• Bang for your buck
• Rider-friendly
• Comfortable

Cons

• Chain final drive instead of a shaft or belt
• Spongy front brake lever